Warning over Eid celebrations

MUSLIMS have been sent Eid cards warning them not to let fire ruin their celebrations. As thousands of people take to the Manchester streets to celebrate the end of Ramadan, firefighters are warning that the combination of candles, karahi frying pans and the traditional dress of hijaabs, shalwar kameez and saris can be deadly.

MUSLIMS have been sent Eid cards warning them not to let fire ruin their celebrations.

As thousands of people take to the Manchester streets to celebrate the end of Ramadan, firefighters are warning that the combination of candles, karahi frying pans and the traditional dress of hijaabs, shalwar kameez and saris can be deadly.

They have sent special cards to mosques in a bid to save lives as Muslims celebrate Eid ul Fitr, the end of the month of fasting.

Deputy chief fire officer Mark Cashin, of Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: "It is ironic and tragic that during periods of celebration there is a dramatic increase in the number of fires among many communities. It's not only Eid, but we also see an increase at Christmas - safety often comes second to celebration."

The fire service has urged Muslims not to let highly flammable scarves, hijaabs, shalwar kameez and saris come into contact with naked flames in the kitchen. Residents in Greater Manchester are encouraged to install smoke alarms on every floor of their home.

The Eid festivities started with a Chand Raat event at Longsight Market yesterday . Bhangra drummers, traditional dancing, henna painting and a funfair created one of the biggest Eid market events in Europe.

Celebrations

And thousands are expected to gather for major celebrations in Rusholme and Trafford following the first sighting of the new moon.

Special security measures are in place around the Trafford Centre, where more than 3,000 extra visitors are expected. Only people aged 25 and over will be allowed into the Namco amusement centre to prevent overcrowding, and police will patrol the centre.

Chief Insp Neil Bholé, of Trafford police, said: "In recent years, the Trafford Centre has been a focal point for many members of the Muslim community from all around the north west to celebrate Eid. The majority of these individuals attend in peaceful celebration. But in the past the behaviour of some visitors has disrupted and spoiled this happy event. We want to ensure that this is a happy and successful festival."

Motorists are warned of delays around Rusholme as police prepare to divert traffic away from Wilmslow Road today and tomorrow.

Parking restrictions will be in place on the road from 1pm on both days.

Chief Insp Wasim Chaudhry appealed for respect and patience during the festivities.

He said: "As part of the policing operation, and to allow the Muslim community to celebrate Eid with minimal disruption, officers will be diverting traffic away from Wilmslow Road during the celebrations. This may mean that journeys through Rusholme are likely to take longer than usual.

"We are extremely proud that Rusholme is a focal point for the Muslim community. I would like to ask residents to be patient with these traffic disruptions and respect this very important Muslim festival."